“Leading with a carrot, not a stick” was the theme of August’s Sustainability Think Tank meeting, cohosted by Hyatt Regency Bellevue and Visit Bellevue.
This month’s Sustainability Think Tank meeting focused on verifying and promoting the sustainability efforts of local hotels and businesses. Instead of penalizing businesses for not meeting sustainability standards—the “stick”—Visit Bellevue and its partners will work together to highlight and celebrate the important sustainability measures the hospitality sector is taking to help steward our environment.
Hyatt Regency Bellevue Shares Green Key Global Recognition
The Hyatt Regency Bellevue shared their experience with the Green Key Global program and has been making tremendous headway in its sustainability efforts, focusing on energy and water conservation, waste reduction, responsible sourcing, supplier screening, and environmental data tracking. The hotel has reduced waste per occupied room by 60% since 2021, reduced single-use items through large format bath amenities, water refill stations, digital compendiums, and electronic keys, and has been supporting local organizations and businesses, including Pasado’s Safe Haven, Keep Bellevue Beautiful, and Washington wineries.
"At Hyatt Regency Bellevue, sustainability is an ongoing operational commitment and an important part of how we care for our guests, colleagues, community, and environment. Green Key Global provides a valuable framework for measuring our progress, identifying opportunities for improvement, and holding ourselves accountable," said Eric Popowicz, Director of Operations at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue. "We are proud to have been a recipient of the distinguished 5 Green Key rating, reflecting our ongoing commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. We believe that collaboration among Bellevue’s hotels and local partners can help create a more sustainable destination for everyone."
Visit Bellevue Offers Green Key Global Sponsorship for Hotels
During the meeting, Visit Bellevue presented its new sustainability program that resembles "the carrot", offering to sponsor hotel properties’ Green Key Global verifications this year, as well as providing free promotion of these achievements. By focusing on and promoting one cohesive verification program, Green Key Global, Bellevue can stand out as a premier sustainable destination, drawing visitors from across the globe who value health and wellness and destinations that invest in their environment.
Upcoming Sustainability Think Tank Meeting
The next Sustainability Think Tank meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 27 at 10:30 a.m.
To RSVP or learn more about our Sustainability Think Tank or Green Key Global, contact Megan Adams, Visit Bellevue’s Director of Destination Stewardship and Community Relations, at madams@visitbellevue.com.
About The Sustainability Think Tank
The Visit Bellevue Sustainability Think Tank brings together sustainability leaders working in and around the hospitality sector to exchange ideas, share best practices and advance meaningful action. The group serves as a collaborative platform where Bellevue’s hospitality partners can access education, resources and support to strengthen their sustainability efforts. Together, members are helping build a more sustainable Bellevue and elevate the destination’s progress and leadership in sustainable hospitality.
